Former star Summers takes in his special day

MARQUETTE — A Northern Michigan University men’s basketball legend was honored at halftime of the team’s game against Saginaw Valley State on Saturday.

Gene Summers returned to Marquette and took in a game which the Wildcats won with ease, 86-69.

Summers, who played from 1964-66 and scored 1,328 points, was invited onto the court at halftime for a special ceremony and was joined at midcourt by NMU athletic director Forrest Karr as well as several former teammates. He was presented with a commemorative basketball.

Summers said returning to Marquette with his family and seeing some familiar faces was a great experience.

“It’s a big honor for me and my family,” he said. “The guys I played with, I haven’t seen them in a while and it’s always good to see them.

“I love what Northern Michigan has done for me, I loved the win today and I love everything that’s happened to me since I’ve been here.”

Summers added it was nice to return during a time the current team is improving and winning games.

“It’s a real thrill seeing Northern winning games,” he said. “Last time I came up here they weren’t winning, but today I feel like they’ve got it together. They’re playing good basketball and Coach (Bill Sall) is doing a good job with them.”

A luncheon was held in his honor at the University Center after the women’s game.